Coronation Street's Roy Barraclough dies at 81

Former Coronation Street star Roy Barraclough has died at the age of 81 following a short illness. 

Barraclough was best known for his role as Rover's Return landlord Alec Gilroy and for his character's stormy relationship with on-screen wife Bet Lynch, played by Julie Goodyear.

Goodyear paid an emotional tribute to her 'dearest friend' after hearing of his death today.

She said: 'I have no words to describe how devastated I feel. We kept in close touch and spoke to each other at least two or three times every week.

'I will treasure all the happy times we had working and laughing together. We were just like a married couple, crazy, I know, but true.'

Barraclough first appeared as a talent agent in Corrie in the early 1970s before becoming a regular face on the cobbles from 1986 until 1992 and returning again in 1996 for two years. 

His performances as one half of the double act 'Cissie and Ada' with comedian Les Dawson in the 1970s and 80s were also loved by TV viewers.

A spokesman for the Lancashire-born actor said he died at 6am Thursday following a short illness. 

Coronation Street bosses are to dedicate tonight's episode to Barraclough's memory.

Executive producer Kieran Roberts said: 'Roy was a delightful person as well as a wonderful actor and will be greatly missed by all of us connected with the programme.

'The fact that the character of Alec Gilroy was at the heart of the show for so many years and was held in such affection by so many fans is a tribute to Roy's genius, for drama as well as comedy.'

Comedian Matt Lucas posted a picture of the pair filming for 2015 show Pompidou and wrote: 'Happy days with Roy Barraclough on Pompidou. Lovely man, brilliant actor.' 

Source: Daily Mail.